Large Format French Wines

Flickinger has a fantastic selection of large format bottles from the greatest wines regions of France. Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne and the Rhône are well represented, with many of the wine's greatest producers included on this list - Château Lafite-Rothschild, Comte Liger-Belair, Krug and Domaine du Pegau are just the of the spectacular wines included here. This is the perfect time to add some showcase bottles to your cellar - take advantage of this list and grab some of these big bottles while they last.

The following are the wines remaining from the offer sent on Thursday, December 21, 2017. Please enter your desired quantities and click the 'Add' button.

Producer	Vint.	Wine	Price	Qty	Order
		Bordeaux Red
Ch. Cheval-Blanc	2010	St. Emilion (1.5 L) ex-Negociant	$2,750	2
	WA 100 (2/2013): The 2010 is one of the most impressive two-year-old Cheval Blancs I have tasted in 34 years in this profession. The final blend of 54% Cabernet Franc and 46% Merlot has the tell-tale berry/floral nose with subtle hints of menthol, blueberry, raspberry and flowers in addition to some forest floor and a delicate touch of lead pencil shavings. The wine exhibits more structure and density than it did from barrel, and it was already remarkable then. The foresty/floral notes seem to linger and linger in this surprisingly full-bodied, powerful Cheval Blanc, yet it possesses a very healthy pH that should ensure enormous longevity. Dense purple in color, and a bigger, richer wine than usual, this is one Cheval Blanc that will probably need a decade of cellaring. I like the description from the estate’s administrator, Pierre Lurton, who said it tasted like “liquid cashmere,” a perfect expression, despite the wine’s structure and intensity. This is another 50-year wine from this amazingly structured, rich vintage.   JS 100 (11/2013): The aromas here are crazy with flowers, mushroom, forest floor, and fruit. It seems like I am walking through a row of the vines in Cheval Blanc when I have my nose in the glass. It's full-bodied, with fabulous layers of ultra-fine tannins and milk chocolate, raspberries, and a phenomenal finish. Truly one of the greatest Chevals ever. Better than 2009. Try in 2020.   WS 98 (3/2013): This is stone-cold shut down right now, but why worry? You'll want to wait at least a decade before breaching a bottle as massively endowed as this, with loads of loamy bass notes thumping along underneath a riveting track of licorice snap, pastis-steeped black currant fruit, maduro tobacco and espresso. And then there's an echo of petrichor at the very end that hints at the aromatic fireworks to come with cellaring. Should compete for wine of the vintage. Best from 2020 through 2040.   NM 98 (1/2014): The stellar Cheval Blanc 2010 has a very precise bouquet, not powerful but exuding a brooding intensity. It is very well defined with hints of honey and dried violet petals in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with a wondrous spicy entry, perfectly judged acidity, real weight and heft on the back palate that fans out as if there is no tomorrow. This is a huge wine, totally compelling, a behemoth destined to mature over years rather than decades. Tasted January 2014.   VM 95+ (7/2013): Good bright, deep red. Captivating scents of cassis, violet, minerals, bitter chocolate and wild herbs. Extremely fine-grained but also very dense and chewy for young Cheval Blanc, showing great cabernet franc lift and perfume and a downright velvety texture. This deep, multilayered wine was a bit dominated by its brooding tannins and big structure when first poured, but I found my score going steadily higher as the wine benefited from air. My rating may look too conservative a decade from now--or three or four decades hence. Stephen Tanzer.
	2012	St. Emilion (1.5 L) ex-Negociant	$1,099	12
	JS 98 (3/2011): This has a fabulous nose of black fruit, dark chocolate, nuts, and spices. It’s pretty much perfect. Full bodied, with beautiful fine tannins reminiscent of cashmere. A long, long finish rounds out this beautiful wine. Please don’t touch this until 2020.   NM 95-97 (5/2013): The Grand Vin is a blend of 54% Merlot and 46% Cabernet Franc, 26th September until the 13th October that comes from 35 different parcels. The picking is done in the vineyard for the first sorting by the pickers and then sorted by hand as they are sure delicate than using optical sorting machine. It has a dense, broody nose that has the looming presence of the Quinault L’Enclos. It veers towards a red fruit profile, with “rocky” aromas, perhaps a touch of marmalade and quince. The palate is medium-bodied but displays very good concentration for the vintages. It feels very harmonious – silky but with a citric acid edge that lends the finish the tension it needs to maintain the freshness. This will probably become a masculine Cheval Blanc that will need a decade in bottle.   WS 95 (3/2015): This wine is gorgeous in all facets, offering a simultaneously loamy and creamy mouthfeel, seamless layers of red and black currant, cherry, raspberry and blackberry fruit, and a long, tobacco-fueled finish that features alluring hints of black tea and incense. The fruit and terroir shine in this broad, deep and defined style. Best from 2018 through 2030. 7,665 cases made.   WA 94 (4/2015): A beautiful wine that always seems to drink well, the 2012 Cheval Blanc has a sweet, fragrant nose of black and red currants, floral nuances and spice. Supple, round and juicy, this wine can be drunk now or cellared for another 15 or more years.
Ch. Lafite Rothschild	1977	Pauillac (6x1.5L)	$6,600	2
	WS 87 (11/1991): Full of lively cranberry, raspberry and herb flavors, with smoky accents and very firm acidity. Very good wine from an unheralded vintage. Drink now through 2000.--Lafite Rothschild vertical.   MB [*] (9/1989): Could be a dashed sight worse. An effort at fragrance and flavour but dry, lean and tart. Not worth pursuing even out of curiosity.
		Bordeaux White
Ch. d' Yquem	2015	Ygrec Y du Yquem Bordeaux Superieur ETA Q1 2019 (1.5 L) ex-Negociant	$279.99	6
	WA 92 (4/2017): No, not a 2016, but since it is the vintage currently for sale, then I will publish my review of the 2015 Ygrec here. The Sauvignon Blanc (75% of the blend) was picked quickly from 25-27 August this year, the Sémillon on 3 and 4 September. It has six grams per liter of residual sugar and the pH, a sizzling 3.20. It has an intriguing bouquet of melted wax, white flowers and hints of sea spray, that marine influence becoming quite strong with aeration. The palate is fresh on the entry with fresh ginger and lemongrass, lively in the mouth with shades of orange rind and sour lemon towards the persistent finish. I would afford this several years in bottle and I suspect you will end up with a very distinctive dry Bordeaux from the most famous Sauternes estate.
	2015	Ygrec Y du Yquem Bordeaux Superieur (1.5 L) ex-Negociant	$299.89	1
	WA 92 (4/2017): No, not a 2016, but since it is the vintage currently for sale, then I will publish my review of the 2015 Ygrec here. The Sauvignon Blanc (75% of the blend) was picked quickly from 25-27 August this year, the Sémillon on 3 and 4 September. It has six grams per liter of residual sugar and the pH, a sizzling 3.20. It has an intriguing bouquet of melted wax, white flowers and hints of sea spray, that marine influence becoming quite strong with aeration. The palate is fresh on the entry with fresh ginger and lemongrass, lively in the mouth with shades of orange rind and sour lemon towards the persistent finish. I would afford this several years in bottle and I suspect you will end up with a very distinctive dry Bordeaux from the most famous Sauternes estate.
		Burgundy Red
Dom. Comte de Vogue	1990	Bonnes Mares Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$1,500	2
	WS 99 (12/1992): A classy, monumental wine, with an impressive deep color and spellbinding complexity. The concentration takes your breath away as the plum, blackberry, raspberry and vanilla flavors coat your palate. Try in 1998. 500 cases made.   WA 90 (10/1992): While the Bonnes Mares is closed, the dark ruby/purple color and the wine's terrific potential are evident. Full-bodied, with a blossoming, black-cherry nose complemented by a judicious use of toasty new oak, this wine exhibits wonderful richness, excellent definition and structure, and a long, dense, concentrated finish. Anticipated maturity: 1997-2010.   BH 88 (11/2007): Complex nose of very ripe aromas and earth and this is already showing strong secondary elements. The flavors are big and rich, indeed even rustic with lots of structure. This does not appear to have the mid-palate depth for the fruit to outlast the structure and while its not necessary to drink up, I have my doubts as to whether it will ever harmonize and it's quite likely it will begin to dry out soon. Still it's quite tasty but the '90 Bonnes Mares clearly needs food to help deal with the tannins. Drink now.
	1990	Bonnes Mares Grand Cru (1.5 L) Very Lightly Wrinkled and Nicked Label	$1,500	1
	WS 99 (12/1992): A classy, monumental wine, with an impressive deep color and spellbinding complexity. The concentration takes your breath away as the plum, blackberry, raspberry and vanilla flavors coat your palate. Try in 1998. 500 cases made.   WA 90 (10/1992): While the Bonnes Mares is closed, the dark ruby/purple color and the wine's terrific potential are evident. Full-bodied, with a blossoming, black-cherry nose complemented by a judicious use of toasty new oak, this wine exhibits wonderful richness, excellent definition and structure, and a long, dense, concentrated finish. Anticipated maturity: 1997-2010.   BH 88 (11/2007): Complex nose of very ripe aromas and earth and this is already showing strong secondary elements. The flavors are big and rich, indeed even rustic with lots of structure. This does not appear to have the mid-palate depth for the fruit to outlast the structure and while its not necessary to drink up, I have my doubts as to whether it will ever harmonize and it's quite likely it will begin to dry out soon. Still it's quite tasty but the '90 Bonnes Mares clearly needs food to help deal with the tannins. Drink now.
Dom. Francois Lamarche	2008	Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$299	15
	BH 89-92 (1/2010): (from 3 different parcels, one at the bottom and two at the top but on opposite sides) A beautiful nose combines notes of ripe and pure red berry fruit aromas that are liberally laced with warm earth and oak spice hints that can also be found on the unusually refined broad-shouldered flavors that are rich, delicious and detailed while possessing good mid-palate sap and the structural elements appear to be sufficiently ripe to avoid dryness though there is a touch of tanginess at present that is probably attributable to gas. Drink 2015+.
Dom. Henri Boillot	2013	Volnay 1er Cru Les Fremiets (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$199.99	8
	VM 90-92 (1/2015): Bright, dark red. Reticent, rather wild aromas of dark cherry and underbrush. Energetic but backward; much tighter today than the village wine and more dominated by its structure. The wild quality carries through on the palate. Best today on the back end, where fine-grained tannins spread out to saturate the palate.   WA 88-90 (12/2014): The 2013 Volnay 1er Cru Fremiets comes from a single parcel of vines. The nose is well defined, dominated by the new oak at the moment, but there is sufficient fruit underneath. The palate is medium-bodied with chewy tannins, quite dense at the moment with a touch of bell pepper on the masculine finish. Fine - if just a bit predictable.   BH 88 (4/2015): Here too there are discreet floral nuances to the pretty red and dark currant scents that are liberally laced with earth and sandalwood nuances. There is a bit more volume to the medium-bodied flavors that retain a lovely sense of detail on the energetic, dusty and mildly austere finish though in this case there is just a hint of dryness that detracts slightly from the overall sense of balance and harmony. Drink 2020+.
Louis Jadot	2010	Chapelle Chambertin Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$299	4
	BH 93 (4/2013): ( from En Gémeaux; these are the oldest vines of the entire Jadot portfolio of owned vineyards.) This was quite reduced at first and required more than an hour of aeration to finally reveal fresh, cool and mineral-inflected red berry fruit, earth, game, humus and forest floor aromas. There is superb intensity to the almost aggressively stone and beautifully well-delineated large-scaled flavors that possess an extremely firm, mouth coating and driving finish. There is a real sense of underlying tension with an overt austerity to the very serious and stunningly long finish. The En Gémeaux character of pungent minerality is about as front and center as I have ever seen it. I repeat that this is at present one very, very austere wine and there is absolutely zero reason to open a bottle young. However, if you choose to commit wine infanticide of such an egregious nature, give it 4 to 6 hours in a decanter. I believe based on how the wine evolved over several days that it will in time be genuinely excellent as the underlying material is certainly present but this is most definitely a "bury in the back of the cellar and forget you own it" Chapelle. Drink 2030+.
	2010	Grands Echezeaux Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$475	1
	2010	Grands Echezeaux Grand Cru (1.5 L) Nicked Label	$475	1
Maison Henri Boillot	2014	Le Chambertin Grand Cru (3.0 L) ex-Domaine; Cracked Capsule, Cork Exposed	$1,095	1
	VM 94-97 (1/2016): (aging in two new Remond barrels): Bright, dark red. Deep, brooding aromas of black cherry and smoke are currently muted by a bit of reduction. Then wonderfully sweet, silky and seamless on the palate, conveying an incredibly suave texture and great inner-mouth perfume to the complex flavors of dark berries, earth and smoky oak. Very classy juice; Boillot told me he used the same "precise" barrique for the Volnay Champans and that he plans to use more Remond barrels in the future. The rising, subtly spicy finish shows uncanny energy and a lighter touch than the Clos de Bèze. A knockout.   BH 94 (4/2016): ( near the very top of the vineyard and atypically, the rows are planted North-South.) This also exhibits just enough reduction to push the seemingly ripe fruit to the background. As is usually the case this is more mineral-driven still with its big-bodied and overtly powerful flavors that also possess fine mid-palate concentration while culminating in a firmly structured, austere and backward finale. This is certainly a big wine but it's not massive; indeed it is a lovely combination of power and grace. Drink 2026+. Don't miss!
	2013	Volnay 1er Cru Champans (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$229.99	10
	BH 91 (4/2015): Here the nose plays right on the edge of reduction and it's enough to shave the top notes off of the earthy red berry fruit and softly spicy aromas. This too possesses impressive volume to the intense and well-concentrated medium-bodied flavors that exude a fine bead of minerality on the dense, serious, austere and lingering finish. This is a bit more robust than the Santenots but it is by no means rustic. Drink 2021+. Outstanding!   VM 90-92 (1/2015): (from vines more than 60 years of age): Bright, dark red. Pungent, high-pitched aromas of cherry, mint, licorice and herbs, plus a cool whiff of menthol. Juicy, sappy and perfumed, with the licorice quality carrying through in the mouth. This very youthful, savory wine finishes with lovely lift and thrust, and lingering rose and violet perfume.   WA 88-90 (12/2014): The 2013 Volnay Champans 1er Cru has a slightly more floral bouquet compared to the Fremiets, around the same level of aromatics. The palate is medium-bodied with a firm grip on the entry, moderate acidity and quite a dense, blackberry and spice-tinged finish that lingers nicely in the mouth. This is a satisfactory Volnay, though without the nervosité of the Caillerets.
		Burgundy White
Joseph Drouhin	2008	Le Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche Grand Cru (3.0 L)	$2,699	1
	BH 93-96 (6/2010): (from a 2.06 ha parcel on the Puligny side.) A perfumed and simply knock-out nose features highly perfumed notes of honeysuckle, acacia blossom, sandalwood and yellow orchard fruit aromas that give way to powerful, rich and dense full-bodied flavors that possess obvious muscle and simply huge length on the overtly austere, deep and palate staining finish. This is a dazzling effort that will only add to the already immense reputation this wine enjoys but note that patience will be required.   VM 93 (9/2010): Very ripe aromas of sweet stone fruits and clove. Very fat, rich and stuffed with fruit; a distinctly round style of Montrachet with an exotic aspect. This mounts impressively on the back end, finishing very rich and very long. The acidity is higher than that of the 2007, notes winemaker Jerome Faure-Brac, but so is the pH. And this is more generous.
Maison Henri Boillot	2016	Meursault (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$114.99	26
	BH 89 (6/2018): ( a blend of equal proportions from Narvaux, Tillets, Clos du Cromin and Chevalières.) Notes of mineral reduction, hazelnut, acacia blossom and lemon can be found on the expressive nose. The racy, intense and ultra-pure flavors possess excellent depth and persistence on the notably dry finale. A lovely villages. Drink 2022+. Outstanding!   VM 89-91 (9/2017): Bright yellow. Very ripe apricot and sexy oak on the nose. Plush, thick and concentrated for village wine, conveying an intriguing sweet/salty balance and surprisingly firm acidity and cut. Finishes saline, serious and long; this will probably need a couple years in bottle to harmonize. A very promising village wine. Stephen Tanzer.
		Rhone Red
Dom. du Coulet	2007	Cornas Gore (1.5 L)	$299	5
Dom. la Barroche	2015	Chateauneuf du Pape Pure (1.5 L)	$239.99	2
	JD 95 (10/2017): Offering more kirsch liqueur, lavender, incense and sweet spice, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Pure is another gorgeous, balanced, seamless beauty. Fine tannin, full-bodied richness, and solid freshness all develop in the glass, and it has a great finish. Like the traditional cuvée, it's elegant, long, and will keep for 15+ years. This cuvée is always from the same parcel located at the intersection of the le Grand Pierre, le Pointu and Rayas lieux-dits, is fermented all in concrete and spends 18 months in a single foudre. There are only 250 cases produced and it’s year in, year out, one of the greatest Grenache’s made in the world.   WA 95-97 (10/2016): One of the most impressive barrel samples of this cuvée I can remember, the 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Pure is always almost 100% Grenache that comes from a tiny parcel of sandy soils located right at the junction of the Grand Pierre, Pointu and Rayas lieux-dits. Partially destemmed, vinified in concrete and aged in a single, ancient foudre, this sensational-looking Châteauneuf du Pape dishes out incredible amounts of ripe cherries, blueberries, crushed rocks and crushed flowers. Big, full-bodied, thick and unctuous, it got a few expletives in the notes, and for all its size and weight, it stays lively, pure and even elegant. My money is on this beauty being one of the top wines in the vintage.   JLL ****[*] (10/2015): Dark colour; has a great nose which is perfumed, and gives expressive fruit. This is beau, really prolonged and both stately and fresh at the same time. It builds tannin on the finish, which is aromatic.   VM 93-95 (3/2017): (most of these vines are now over 115 years old; fermented in large concrete eggs and aged in a large older foudre) Lurid ruby. A complex, highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh dark berries, cola, incense and potpourri, and a hint of smoky minerality emerges with air. Juicy, penetrating black raspberry, bitter cherry and lavender pastille flavors show superb depth and energy and stretch out to become sweeter on the back half. Shows excellent clarity and spicy lift on a long, sappy finish framed by velvety, slow-building tannins. For such a generous wine, there's no lack of vivacity here. Josh Raynolds.
	2015	Chateauneuf du Pape Pure (3.0 L) ex-Domaine	$479.99	2
	JD 95 (10/2017): Offering more kirsch liqueur, lavender, incense and sweet spice, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Pure is another gorgeous, balanced, seamless beauty. Fine tannin, full-bodied richness, and solid freshness all develop in the glass, and it has a great finish. Like the traditional cuvée, it's elegant, long, and will keep for 15+ years. This cuvée is always from the same parcel located at the intersection of the le Grand Pierre, le Pointu and Rayas lieux-dits, is fermented all in concrete and spends 18 months in a single foudre. There are only 250 cases produced and it’s year in, year out, one of the greatest Grenache’s made in the world.   WA 95-97 (10/2016): One of the most impressive barrel samples of this cuvée I can remember, the 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Pure is always almost 100% Grenache that comes from a tiny parcel of sandy soils located right at the junction of the Grand Pierre, Pointu and Rayas lieux-dits. Partially destemmed, vinified in concrete and aged in a single, ancient foudre, this sensational-looking Châteauneuf du Pape dishes out incredible amounts of ripe cherries, blueberries, crushed rocks and crushed flowers. Big, full-bodied, thick and unctuous, it got a few expletives in the notes, and for all its size and weight, it stays lively, pure and even elegant. My money is on this beauty being one of the top wines in the vintage.   JLL ****[*] (10/2015): Dark colour; has a great nose which is perfumed, and gives expressive fruit. This is beau, really prolonged and both stately and fresh at the same time. It builds tannin on the finish, which is aromatic.   VM 93-95 (3/2017): (most of these vines are now over 115 years old; fermented in large concrete eggs and aged in a large older foudre) Lurid ruby. A complex, highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh dark berries, cola, incense and potpourri, and a hint of smoky minerality emerges with air. Juicy, penetrating black raspberry, bitter cherry and lavender pastille flavors show superb depth and energy and stretch out to become sweeter on the back half. Shows excellent clarity and spicy lift on a long, sappy finish framed by velvety, slow-building tannins. For such a generous wine, there's no lack of vivacity here. Josh Raynolds.
	2014	Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$84.99	13
	JLL **** (10/2015): Dark, full red robe. Pepper-licorice feature in a live, open nose that is full of life, has streamlined black cherry fruit at its heart, and a kind air of flowers such as violets. The palate presents live, pepped up black fruit with salted moments, so it drinks well. There is a small knot of late tannin-tar. This is pacy wine with brio and w.o.w. potential, offering direct, good, coursing fruit . It is 15°, but you wouldn’t know it. It can gain fat as it ages. From mid-2017. “The skins, pips, sugars and tannins all ripened together, which is rare, in 2014. It has expanded since the spring of 2015, has a lot of salinity,” Julien Barrot.   VM 91-93 (4/2016): (fermented in concrete and aged in used foudres and demi-muids): Vivid ruby. Deep, smoke-accented dark berry and floral pastille scents are sharpened by a note of peppery spice. Smoky and sweet in the mouth, offering concentrated boysenberry and cherry flavors and a hint of candied violet. Shows very good power and energy and finishes with excellent focus and length; velvety, late-arriving tannins add shape. Quite serious for an entry-level bottling; I'd bet on this making a solid cellar candidate. Josh Raynolds.   WS 91 (10/2016): Juicy, with plum paste and raspberry pâte de fruit flavors that race along, bolstered by a bright anise note. Stays juicy through the finish, showing hints of plum skin, fruitcake and lightly singed alder. Best from 2017 through 2025. 1,800 cases made.   WA 90 (10/2016): The 2014 Châteauneuf du Pape checks in as a blend of 62% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre, 13% Syrah and the rest Cinsault, Clairette Rose and Vaccarèse, all of which was raised mostly in older foudre, with smaller amounts in demi-muids and stainless steel. Medium-bodied, focused and lively, with good concentration and a vibrant, Burgundian-like tension and focus, it offers classic Southern Rhône notes of garrigue, Provençal spice, sappy herbs, and black raspberry and cherry fruit characteristics. Drink it anytime over the coming 7-8 years.
	2015	Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$104.99	30
	JLL ****[*] (10/2015): (Syrah from red clay, galet (atypical) soils on Pradel, sugars ended, just devatted now) **** good and dark, notable colour. Has a blackberry fruit air of deep potential, sustained linger. This can be stylish and inviting. The palate is round, rich, holds good, encased tannins, has definite ways to go. This is long and full, is a bright wine with a natural depth. 18 years. 2) (50% Grenache, 50% Mourvèdre, both 2005, from mixed clay, sand on Cabrières) **** extremely dark. Aromtaic dark berry fruit, round and deep nose. Violets and crisp fruit show on the palate. This is good, plucky wine, full of beans: it is wide, and its tannins fit snugly. It holds good, running fruit, and the finish is fresh. 18-20 years. 3) Grenache from Terres Blanches, Cabrières, Palestor, whole bunch, 5 gm of sugar to complete) ****(*) dark robe. Broad, upfront nose. Exuberant fruit comes out off the bat on the palate, with a crunch of tannins connected to the whole bunches at the end. Lively, free running, aromatic after taste. 21 years. 4) (Mourvèdre, 1990, from Les Mascarrons, sugars not yet finished) ****(*) vary dark; has a sturdy nose, several layers of black berry. This is racy, crystalline, expressive; the clarity of the tannins is notable. I like the length, too. 24 years.   JD 92 (10/2017): The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the young Julien Barrot is a perfumed, elegant release that's loaded with notions of currants, kirsch, licorice, and spice. It's silky, elegant, ethereally textured and long, with the freshness and classic style of the vintage. As usual, the classic cuvée is a blend of roughly 60% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre and the balance Clairette Rose, Cinsault, Syrah, and Vaccarèse, fermented all in concrete tanks and aged mostly in foudre. 2,500 cases.   VM 91-93 (3/2017): (fermented in concrete eggs and aged in foudres and stainless steel tanks) Vivid ruby. Highly expressive cherry and black raspberry aromas are complicated by energetic floral and Asian spice nuances. Sappy, sweet and broad in the mouth, offering juicy, densely packed red and dark berry flavors that become deeper as the wine open up. Stains the palate and shows impressive vivacity on the persistent, floral-dominated finish, which is framed by silky, harmonious tannins. Josh Raynolds.   WA 90-92 (10/2016): The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Signature is a blend of 62% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre, 13% Syrah and the rest Vaccarèse, Clairette Rose and Cinsault. Vinified all in concrete and aged in a combination of foudre, demi-muids and stainless steel, it offers a tight, grippy, medium to full-bodied and beautifully structured style, as well as classic notes of black raspberries, black cherries, crushed flowers and hints of crushed rock. I love its tension, purity and focus, and it has terrific length on the finish as well.
	2015	Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (3.0 L) ex-Domaine	$229.99	11
	JLL ****[*] (10/2015): (Syrah from red clay, galet (atypical) soils on Pradel, sugars ended, just devatted now) **** good and dark, notable colour. Has a blackberry fruit air of deep potential, sustained linger. This can be stylish and inviting. The palate is round, rich, holds good, encased tannins, has definite ways to go. This is long and full, is a bright wine with a natural depth. 18 years. 2) (50% Grenache, 50% Mourvèdre, both 2005, from mixed clay, sand on Cabrières) **** extremely dark. Aromtaic dark berry fruit, round and deep nose. Violets and crisp fruit show on the palate. This is good, plucky wine, full of beans: it is wide, and its tannins fit snugly. It holds good, running fruit, and the finish is fresh. 18-20 years. 3) Grenache from Terres Blanches, Cabrières, Palestor, whole bunch, 5 gm of sugar to complete) ****(*) dark robe. Broad, upfront nose. Exuberant fruit comes out off the bat on the palate, with a crunch of tannins connected to the whole bunches at the end. Lively, free running, aromatic after taste. 21 years. 4) (Mourvèdre, 1990, from Les Mascarrons, sugars not yet finished) ****(*) vary dark; has a sturdy nose, several layers of black berry. This is racy, crystalline, expressive; the clarity of the tannins is notable. I like the length, too. 24 years.   JD 92 (10/2017): The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the young Julien Barrot is a perfumed, elegant release that's loaded with notions of currants, kirsch, licorice, and spice. It's silky, elegant, ethereally textured and long, with the freshness and classic style of the vintage. As usual, the classic cuvée is a blend of roughly 60% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre and the balance Clairette Rose, Cinsault, Syrah, and Vaccarèse, fermented all in concrete tanks and aged mostly in foudre. 2,500 cases.   VM 91-93 (3/2017): (fermented in concrete eggs and aged in foudres and stainless steel tanks) Vivid ruby. Highly expressive cherry and black raspberry aromas are complicated by energetic floral and Asian spice nuances. Sappy, sweet and broad in the mouth, offering juicy, densely packed red and dark berry flavors that become deeper as the wine open up. Stains the palate and shows impressive vivacity on the persistent, floral-dominated finish, which is framed by silky, harmonious tannins. Josh Raynolds.   WA 90-92 (10/2016): The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Signature is a blend of 62% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre, 13% Syrah and the rest Vaccarèse, Clairette Rose and Cinsault. Vinified all in concrete and aged in a combination of foudre, demi-muids and stainless steel, it offers a tight, grippy, medium to full-bodied and beautifully structured style, as well as classic notes of black raspberries, black cherries, crushed flowers and hints of crushed rock. I love its tension, purity and focus, and it has terrific length on the finish as well.
	2015	Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (6.0 L) ex-Domaine	$459.99	1
	JLL ****[*] (10/2015): (Syrah from red clay, galet (atypical) soils on Pradel, sugars ended, just devatted now) **** good and dark, notable colour. Has a blackberry fruit air of deep potential, sustained linger. This can be stylish and inviting. The palate is round, rich, holds good, encased tannins, has definite ways to go. This is long and full, is a bright wine with a natural depth. 18 years. 2) (50% Grenache, 50% Mourvèdre, both 2005, from mixed clay, sand on Cabrières) **** extremely dark. Aromtaic dark berry fruit, round and deep nose. Violets and crisp fruit show on the palate. This is good, plucky wine, full of beans: it is wide, and its tannins fit snugly. It holds good, running fruit, and the finish is fresh. 18-20 years. 3) Grenache from Terres Blanches, Cabrières, Palestor, whole bunch, 5 gm of sugar to complete) ****(*) dark robe. Broad, upfront nose. Exuberant fruit comes out off the bat on the palate, with a crunch of tannins connected to the whole bunches at the end. Lively, free running, aromatic after taste. 21 years. 4) (Mourvèdre, 1990, from Les Mascarrons, sugars not yet finished) ****(*) vary dark; has a sturdy nose, several layers of black berry. This is racy, crystalline, expressive; the clarity of the tannins is notable. I like the length, too. 24 years.   JD 92 (10/2017): The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the young Julien Barrot is a perfumed, elegant release that's loaded with notions of currants, kirsch, licorice, and spice. It's silky, elegant, ethereally textured and long, with the freshness and classic style of the vintage. As usual, the classic cuvée is a blend of roughly 60% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre and the balance Clairette Rose, Cinsault, Syrah, and Vaccarèse, fermented all in concrete tanks and aged mostly in foudre. 2,500 cases.   VM 91-93 (3/2017): (fermented in concrete eggs and aged in foudres and stainless steel tanks) Vivid ruby. Highly expressive cherry and black raspberry aromas are complicated by energetic floral and Asian spice nuances. Sappy, sweet and broad in the mouth, offering juicy, densely packed red and dark berry flavors that become deeper as the wine open up. Stains the palate and shows impressive vivacity on the persistent, floral-dominated finish, which is framed by silky, harmonious tannins. Josh Raynolds.   WA 90-92 (10/2016): The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Signature is a blend of 62% Grenache, 18% Mourvèdre, 13% Syrah and the rest Vaccarèse, Clairette Rose and Cinsault. Vinified all in concrete and aged in a combination of foudre, demi-muids and stainless steel, it offers a tight, grippy, medium to full-bodied and beautifully structured style, as well as classic notes of black raspberries, black cherries, crushed flowers and hints of crushed rock. I love its tension, purity and focus, and it has terrific length on the finish as well.
Dom. Roger Sabon	2003	Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Corroded Capsule	$100	3
	WS 95 (9/2005): Dense raspberry, plum, licorice, tar and bacon notes are supported by thick, muscular tannins in this concentrated, showy red. A bit of a brute now (though floral and mineral hints chime in too) so cellar. If you do, you'll have a classic example of the vintage. Best from 2007 through 2025. 1,250 cases made.   WA 92 (2/2006): Broad, expansive, rich, and impressively endowed, the dark ruby/purple-colored 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige is dense, chewy, and meaty with high levels of alcohol, hints of roasted meats, kirsch liqueur, herbes de Provence, creme de cassis, and melted licorice. It is a broad, mouthfilling Chateauneuf du Pape that is classic and substantial. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.   VM 86 (2/2006): Pale ruby color. Meaty, earthy and pungent on the nose, with powerful black cherry and plum liqueur aromas accented by notes of black tea, smoked meat and cracked pepper. Turns riper and more roasted as it opens, the dark fruit qualities becoming hotter and sharper. This clearly displays the roasted character of the vintage.
	2003	Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage	$100	2
	WS 95 (9/2005): Dense raspberry, plum, licorice, tar and bacon notes are supported by thick, muscular tannins in this concentrated, showy red. A bit of a brute now (though floral and mineral hints chime in too) so cellar. If you do, you'll have a classic example of the vintage. Best from 2007 through 2025. 1,250 cases made.   WA 92 (2/2006): Broad, expansive, rich, and impressively endowed, the dark ruby/purple-colored 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige is dense, chewy, and meaty with high levels of alcohol, hints of roasted meats, kirsch liqueur, herbes de Provence, creme de cassis, and melted licorice. It is a broad, mouthfilling Chateauneuf du Pape that is classic and substantial. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.   VM 86 (2/2006): Pale ruby color. Meaty, earthy and pungent on the nose, with powerful black cherry and plum liqueur aromas accented by notes of black tea, smoked meat and cracked pepper. Turns riper and more roasted as it opens, the dark fruit qualities becoming hotter and sharper. This clearly displays the roasted character of the vintage.
Le Vieux Donjon	2000	Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) Lightly Nicked Label	$125	2
	JD 93 (5/2010): A textbook Châteauneuf, the 2000 Le Vieux Donjon Châteauneuf-du-Pape exhibits copious garrigue, rusty iron, earth and black cherry fruit on the nose. It’s showing solid complexity but there’s still fresh, ripe fruit. In the mouth, the wine is medium to full bodied with solid underlying structure, a superb texture and a long, quality finish. This should continue to drink well over the next 10 or more years.   VM 92 (2/2003): Full deep red. Highly nuanced nose combines roasted, liqueur-like red fruits, smoke, truffle and spice cake; this reminded me of Vega Sicilia! Then silky but vinous and firm; a bit subdued today but boasts lovely fruit intensity and incipient complexity. Finishes long and subtle, with ripe, suave tannins and a late note of pepper. This should develop beautifully with bottle aging. Stephen Tanzer.   WS 92 (11/2002): Beautiful, silky Châteauneuf terroir aromas: leather, game, truffles, plum, dried herbs, lead pencil. It all swirls around in the palate, a deeply satisfying blend that surprises and harks back to something as simple as a walk in the country on a rainy autumn day. Supple tannins on the balanced finish. Drink now through 2010. 4,165 cases made.   JLL **** (12/2010): Smoky, wispy, latent red fruits aroma at first, then the air brings on a more earthy, fundamental, farmyard display. Pretty, striking red fruit that has real dash about it, big and lovely fruit. There is a lovely ball of intensity in the fruit, and it distributes its favours openly – it is nicely compact, savoury, tasty, even if it lacks a little cut. Very approachable, fine wine. Lingers well on the finish. Good balance overall.   WA 91 (2/2003): The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape represents an educational tour of the southern Rhone, in particular, Chateauneuf du Pape. It possesses all the appellation's classic components ... underbrush, garrigue, licorice, pepper, lavender, sweet black cherries, and incense. Extremely perfumed and heady, this full-bodied, moderately tannic offering comes close to matching the mass and blockbuster power of the 1998. Firm tannin in the finish suggests a long aging curve. Given my experience with Vieux Donjon, most of the classic vintages hit their peak at 7-8 years, where they remain for 5-6 years. Around age 15-16 they begin a slow decline. The 2000 should follow that path. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2016.
Paul Jaboulet Aine	1990	Hermitage La Chapelle (3.0 L)	$4,950	1
	WA 100 (9/2015): The 1990 Hermitage La Chapelle lived up to its reputation on this occasion, and of the three titans (1990, 1978 and 1961), it was probably my favorite. Still inky colored and ruby at the rim, it offers an absolutely profound bouquet of sweet cassis, smoked meats, chocolate, licorice and spice. This is followed by a full-bodied, insanely textured, pure and hedonistic palate that has that perfect mix of still-vibrant fruit and ample secondary nuances. I suspect the '61 was even richer at this stage, but the overall purity and freshness here are incredible. It will continue to evolve for decades, but I'd happily open bottles today.   JLL ****** (3/2011): Very full robe, that is still through all the way through. The bouquet has a sweet air, rich, dried fruits such as dates with a mild floral air, blackberry undernotes, a mixture of oily and very minor damp touches of age. There are both salty and violet contributors, and creamy, brioche airs. What a warm breadth to this - an enormously wide and complete bouquet. The palate combines richness and grain, moves well, and has glints of direct focus. It has a lot more definition than last night’s 1990. Is has a fresh, tight, free run finish. Inside there are fine, fresh red fruits which build up into a final glow, a note of heat. It is more elegant and crisp than last night’s 1990. The finish has sinew in it.   JS 98 (12/2014): Gorgeous aromas of dark berry, dried meat, dried berry, game, wet earth and licorice. Floral. Full body with a wonderful texture of dried fruits, spices and berries. Very dense and muscular with wonderful balance and length. Dense and intense. Blockbuster style.   WS 97 (12/1999): As expected from this ideal vintage, this '90 is sensational. Inky in color and solidly anchored in its terroir, it springs to life with a symphony of flavors, from mineral to wet earth and blackberry. Marvelous balance among fruit, acidity and smooth tannins. Delicious now, but can hold.--La Chapelle vertical. Drink now through 2025. 9,400 cases made.   VM 96 (7/2010): Rh?ne lovers were out in full force on this night. Sadly, I only got to taste a handful of the wines being passed around. Still, these were four of the greatest wines I have ever tasted. The 1990 La Chapelle held its own in this grouping, and then some. The purity of the fruit and the wine’s finish were mind-bending. Antonio Galloni.
		Champagne
Canard-Duchene	NV	Authentic Brut Champagne (1.5 L)	$78.99	40
Lanson	1979	Brut Champagne (1.5 L)	$599	10
	1981	Brut Champagne (1.5 L)	$549	8
Louis Roederer	1982	Cristal Champagne (1.5 L) Heavily Bin-Soiled Label	$1,800	1
	MB [***[*]] (3/1991): In magnum and bottles; lively; firm, still relatively immature. Should be a 5-star mouthful now.
Veuve Clicquot	1982	Cave Privee Champagne (1.5 L)	$950	2
	WS 95 (12/2014): Bright, sleek and elegant, with mouthwatering acidity, this is soft and creamy in texture, offering hints of smoked almond and whole-grain toast, accented by dried apple, crème brûlée and dried herb notes. Rich details of grilled nut and oyster shell linger on the persistent finish. Drink now through 2024.
		Bordeaux Red
Ch. Haut Brisson	2009	St. Emilion La Reserve (1.5 L) ex-Negociant	$129.99		Sold Out
Ch. Lafite Rothschild	1988	Pauillac (1.5 L) ex-Negociant	$1,799		Sold Out
Ch. Leoville Poyferre	2001	St. Julien (1.5 L) ex-Negociant	$189.99		Sold Out
Ch. Pavie Macquin	2010	St. Emilion (1.5 L) ex-Negociant	$299.99		Sold Out
Vieux Chateau Certan	2010	Pomerol (1.5 L) ex-Negociant	$689		Sold Out
		Burgundy Red
Chateau de la Tour	2012	Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$269.99		Sold Out
Christophe Perrot Minot	2004	Chapelle Chambertin Grand Cru Vieilles Vignes (1.5 L)	$219		Sold Out
Dom. Alain Hudelot-Noellat	1999	Romanee St. Vivant Grand Cru (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork; Lightly Torn Label	$1,199		Sold Out
	1999	Romanee St. Vivant Grand Cru (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork	$1,199		Sold Out
Dom. Arnoux-Lachaux	2008	Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Les Suchots (1.5 L)	$449		Sold Out
Dom. de Montille	2011	Volnay 1er Cru Taillepieds (1.5 L)	$195		Sold Out
Dom. Henri Boillot	2013	Volnay 1er Cru Les Chevrets (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$179.99		Sold Out
Dom. Michel Gros	1999	Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$299		Sold Out
Dom. Ponsot	2009	Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$898		Sold Out
	2003	Clos de la Roche Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$669		Sold Out
	2008	Clos de Vougeot Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$459		Sold Out
	2009	Corton Cuvee Bourdon Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$395		Sold Out
Dom. Taupenot Merme	2011	Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$199		Sold Out
Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair	2013	Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Clos des Grandes Vignes (1.5 L)	$650		Sold Out
	2013	Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Clos des Grandes Vignes (1.5 L) Very Lightly Nicked Label	$650		Sold Out
Frederic Esmonin	2013	Ruchottes Chambertin Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$220		Sold Out
Louis Jadot	2004	Bonnes Mares Grand Cru (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork	$275		Sold Out
	2006	Mazis Chambertin Grand Cru (3.0 L) Chipped Wax Capsule.	$675		Sold Out
Louis Jadot (negociant)	2010	Bonnes Mares Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$499		Sold Out
Maison Henri Boillot	2016	Bourgogne Pinot Noir (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$51.99		Sold Out
		Burgundy White
Etienne Sauzet	2013	Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru (1.5 L)	$999		Sold Out
Joseph Drouhin	2009	Le Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche Grand Cru (3.0 L)	$2,599		Sold Out
		Rhone Red
Alain Voge	2012	Cornas Cuvee Les Vieilles Fontaines (1.5 L)	$249		Sold Out
Ch. de Beaucastel	2003	Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L)	$139.99		Sold Out
	2005	Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L)	$179.99		Sold Out
	2009	Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L)	$159.99		Sold Out
	2015	Chateauneuf du Pape (3.0 L)	$324		Sold Out
Clos des Papes	2005	Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L)	$229		Sold Out
	2013	Chateauneuf du Pape (3.0 L)	$375		Sold Out
	2015	Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L)	$198.99		Sold Out
Clos Saint Jean	2009	Chateauneuf du Pape La Combe des Fous (1.5 L) Heavily Bin-Soiled Label	$269		Sold Out
	2007	Chateauneuf du Pape Sanctus Sanctorum (1.5 L)	$1,599		Sold Out
	2009	Chateauneuf du Pape Sanctus Sanctorum (1.5 L)	$939		Sold Out
Dom. de la Janasse	2007	Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee XXL (1.5 L)	$825		Sold Out
Dom. de Mourchon	2013	Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Grande Reserve (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$59.99		Sold Out
Dom. du Pegau	2007	Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Capo (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork	$798		Sold Out
	2007	Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Capo (1.5 L) Very Lightly Scuffed Label	$798		Sold Out
	2001	Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Laurence (1.5 L) Depressed Cork	$200		Sold Out
	2000	Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork	$175		Sold Out
	2003	Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label	$250		Sold Out
Dom. du Tix	2012	Cotes du Ventoux Cuvee de Bramefan (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$54.99		Sold Out
Dom. la Barroche	2015	Chateauneuf du Pape Pure (6.0 L)	$899.99		Sold Out
	2012	Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (3.0 L)	$219.99		Sold Out
	2012	Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (6.0 L)	$475		Sold Out
	2013	Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$109.99		Sold Out
	2014	Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (3.0 L) ex-Domaine	$249		Sold Out
Dom. Roger Sabon	2003	Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige (1.5 L)	$100		Sold Out
Dom. St. Prefert	2009	Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve Auguste Favier (1.5 L)	$104.99		Sold Out
Le Vieux Donjon	1995	Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) Lightly Bin-Soiled Label; Lightly Scuffed Label	$120		Sold Out
M. Chapoutier	2006	Chateauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois (1.5 L)	$140		Sold Out
	2006	Chateauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois (1.5 L) Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label	$140		Sold Out
	2002	Ermitage Rouge LErmite (1.5 L)	$199		Sold Out
Paul Jaboulet Aine	2012	Hermitage La Chapelle (1.5 L) ex-Domaine	$329		Sold Out
		Rhone White
M. Chapoutier	1999	Ermitage Blanc LErmite (1.5 L)	$549		Sold Out
	2002	Ermitage Blanc LErmite (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork; Bin-Soiled Label; Lightly Torn Label	$195		Sold Out
	2002	Ermitage Blanc LErmite (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork; Heavily Bin-Soiled Label; Water/Wetness-Stained Label	$195		Sold Out
	2002	Ermitage Blanc LErmite (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork; Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label	$195		Sold Out
		Southern France
Ch. de Pibarnon	2013	Bandol (1.5 L) ex-Chateau	$79.99		Sold Out
	2016	Bandol Blanc (1.5 L) ex-Chateau	$69.99		Sold Out
	2016	Bandol Rose (1.5 L) ex-Chateau	$48.99		Sold Out
		Champagne
Krug	1995	Brut Champagne (1.5 L)	$725		Sold Out
	1989	Collection Champagne (1.5 L)	$1,200		Sold Out
Louis Roederer	1990	Cristal Champagne (1.5 L)	$1,100		Sold Out
Moet & Chandon	1978	P3 Champagne (1.5 L) Original Gift Box. Disgorged 2008.	$3,619		Sold Out
Veuve Clicquot	1990	La Grande Dame Rose Champagne (3.0 L)	$1,195		Sold Out
		Other France
Dom. de la Prebende	2016	Beaujolais Rose (1.5 L)	$29.99		Sold Out
Jean Foillard	2013	Morgon Cote du Py (1.5 L)	$79.99		Sold Out